Ask Sam letter

To Sam1 September 2017

arguing i can hear next door

hi I was wondering what should I do if I can hear two parents arguing almost every day in front of their children? they are always swearing and the step dad is an alcoholic I'm very concerned for the children as one of them is only a toddler. it seems as if the mom is also struggling to cope with him in the house :(

Sam12 September 2017

Hi there,

It can be really difficult when you’re worried someone is being hurt. It can feel as though you don’t have any control over what’s happening. The important thing to remember is that you don’t have to cope on your own. If you want to tell someone about what you’re hearing, try speaking to your parents, carers or an adult you trust.

Knowing someone else might need help can be hard. You might feel worried and anxious or find it difficult to think of other things.

You are right to be concerned about the safety of toddlers if their carers are struggling to cope. Very small children are unable to get help for themselves and may need others to speak up for them.

The important thing to remember is that it’s always okay to tell an adult you trust. They should support you to pass on your worries to someone like the NSPCC helpline, social services or the police.

It’s also important to speak to trusted adults about how this is making you feel, because your feelings matter. Remember you can talk to a counsellor here at Childline to support you with what to do next.

Thanks for sending me this letter, take care.

Sam

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